Live-Action Lion King Remake Finds Its Writer in Jeff Nathanson

In the midst of all this live-action remake news (looking at you, Mulan and Beauty and the Beast), I nearly forgot The Lion King was also getting a makeover. This film will be directed by Jon Favreau, who also took the helm for this year’s live-action Jungle Book and will be coming back for the sequel. No cast members have been announced, but thanks to Deadline, we now know that Jeff Nathanson will be writing the script. He previously wrote Steven Spielberg’s Catch Me If You Can as well as the Rush Hour films and Tower Heist.

The film is reportedly on its way into production, but at this point, we don’t have a lot of information on the project. I just hope they’re able to get James Earl Jones on board, because I refuse to accept any other person as the voice of Mufasa. Just like anyone who has seen Mulan refuses to accept a white savior in her live-action remake. Yep, it was rumored that Mulan would have a white male lover but that was quickly dismissed as a jumping off point. After fan outrage, it was revealed that the team behind the movie is looking for an all Asian cast. Let’s hope they stick to their word.